You wouldn’t think it would be difficult to choose appropriate jewelry for your style, yet somehow, we all go wrong at times. I myself make mistakes from time to time when purchasing jewelry. We choose pieces because we like them, not because they suit us or fit our image/style.
It doesn’t have to be difficult. It can be as simple as knowing yourself. If you like a piece of jewelry, try it on. I tend to purchase sets, simply because you can’t try earrings on the same way you can a bracelet, ring or necklace. For myself, I know what styles of earrings look good on me, but sometimes I go wrong with necklaces, especially when chunky pieces are in. Because I’m short, I have to be very selective when choosing bigger pieces and you honestly won’t see me wear many large necklaces, simply because it is so difficult to find one that looks good on me. I tend to go with smaller pieces, even with my rocker look, simply because I’m not tall enough to carry off the big pieces I’d love to wear.
Knowing your style, whether it’s modern casual, trendy, trend setter or classic/conservative, is the most important element. Another thing I often see happen is that a conservative lady will purchase a single piece or set to wear with everything. That works for very few people. If your entire wardrobe is black, a single set will work, but if you wear a variety of styles and colors, you need to buy pieces or sets that work with most of your clothing in that color. There are exceptions, of course. You can find a diamond or pearl necklace and earrings that will go with almost anything, especially if you are more conservative or like a classic dressy look, for example. Personally, I have a thing about diamonds, I don’t particularly like them. They seem very blah to me and are far more expensive than they should be. I can get more fire out of the right cut in white sapphire or white topaz, but my personal preference is for colored stones.
Versatility in jewelry is very important, at least to me. I don’t like to buy something that I know I’ll only wear with one or two pieces of clothing, except for special occasions where an evening dress is a must. I want pieces of jewelry that I can wear with as many of my clothes as possible, and I think most people do. We want value for our dollar, because we work hard for our money.
All the things I have said about choosing jewelry for women, also holds true for men. A big man can wear a bigger chain than someone shorter and/or slimmer. Face shape affects what looks good on men too.
If you are in doubt, don’t shop alone. Take someone who’s opinion you trust with you, and try the piece on. I have a friend who has impeccable taste, even though she doesn’t wear much jewelry herself. If I’m uncertain, I take her and the primary piece of clothing I plan to wear with it along when I go to buy a piece of jewelry.
No matter how much you know about jewelry and fashion, mistakes are inevitable, because no one is perfect. This blog is about reducing the number of mistakes we make, not eliminating them. If perfection were possible, I’d never have bought that massive white beaded necklace that’s been in my jewelry box since 1986. I love it, but it looks hideous on me. One day, I’ll pass it on to someone who suits it, but until then, it sits, an unused reminder that after 28 years of making, altering and repairing jewelry, even my judgement isn’t flawless.
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